Gov. Snyder signs Michigan 2018 budget in Grand Rapids

Next year's budget will funnel $56.5 billion into school, roads, and other government operations.

Two major highlights include a $120 million increase to help "at-risk" students and $35 million more for infrastructure and road improvements.

"We are the best place to for business," Snyder told Political Reporter Nick Minock.

Snyder also says Michigan is a role model for passing state budgets ahead of schedule.

After some compromises and arm twisting the 2018 budget was signed at Kent Career Tech, a skilled trades learning center.

"We need to grow these programs," said Snyder. "So I really want to send a message to parents and young people and people looking for that next career, please look at these areas. We want to facilitate that. We want to make it as easy as possible and we are going to invest more in those areas."

Snyder is also investing slightly more money in roads and infrastructure plus a $150 million deposit in the state's rainy day fund, but that's not all, according to Lt. Gov. Brian Calley.

"In terms of highlights, you'll see that it makes education a major priority and that it makes saving for the future a major priority," said Calley.

"Since the time I've become Governor, we'll have $1.9 billion more invested in K-12," said Snyder.

Democrat's say that investment is not enough.

State Rep. Jon Hoadley said K-12 funding is still down $1,000 per student and higher education funding isn't back to 2010 funding levels for some colleges, which means higher student tuition.

When it comes to fighting the opioid abuse crisis, leaders from both sides say the 2018 budget will bring well needed relief.

"There is more funding in mental health which is obviously a big priority for me," said House Speaker Tom Leonard.

To help keep college costs down, the state budget doesn't allow public colleges to increase tuition by more than $475 per student for the 2018 school year.